One day, some years ago, I woke up
and decided to start running. I was afraid and I felt that I lacked a runner’s
body or the speed needed, but I believed in myself and found my pace. My first
road race was daunting. However, I became fearless at that starting line. I
accepted that I was likely going to be the last runner on the road, but the
goal was halfway accomplished; I had shown up and now I just needed to cross
the finish line. This would be the first of many races for me.

 

Years later, in 2016, I finished
the Chicago Marathon. I can still remember my sweet son’s smile and
astonishment after I finished. He was so proud, and he told me I was his hero.
As a single mother, knowing that I am positively inspiring my son is
everything. This isn’t all running has done for me. It has grounded me while
allowing me to create amazing memories, share my passion with my family and
become part of a community.

 

This helped me in 2017 when I
suffered a medical scare that left me filled with fear and anxiety. I leaned on
God’s word to help me overcome this fear. As I ran, I would repeat to myself
Mark 5:36 “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” While I was
recovering, running was a daunting task, but I kept doing it. Over time,
through God and his spirit I was able to overcome that fear. 

 

The
gift of peace that God has given me has made me want to live a more purposeful
life. One way I can do this is by helping others that are less fortunate. God
has blessed me with health and the ability to take part in the amazing experience
of the Chicago Marathon. To show my appreciation I have decided to run the 2019
Chicago Marathon to help raise money for the Mission Our Lady of the Angels, a
Catholic Mission serving the poor on Chicago’s West side. The Mission serves
1000+ families a month with food and other basic material needs, assists 900+
at risk kids in after-school programs, serves bi-weekly community meals and,
most importantly, brings the Hope of Christ to a neighborhood plagued by gangs,
violence and poverty. “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small
things with love.” Mother Teresa.

 

I humbly ask you for financial
support and prayers to persevere through this journey. Every single
donation no matter how big or small is welcome with gratitude.  

Funds will be used to complete
the renovation of the Mission’s new outreach center to the poor in West
Humboldt Park, Chicago. The new outreach center will provide the very needed space for the
Mission’s donation storage/ distribution, a handicapped accessible kitchen/
dining room, meeting space for neighborhood and retreat groups, and a 60+
bedroom retreat center for volunteers and retreat guests. Information about the
Mission at www.missionola.comInformation about the
outreach center renovation project at https://missionola.com/school.html We need your help to complete
this project! Be part of the miracle that is TEAM OLA!

The Mission is a 501(c)(3)
and relies entirely on the donations of private donors.